Charges dropped against ‘I’m Shmacked’

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Charges have been dropped against the “I’m Shmacked” owner and cameraman, who were accused of starting a riot at Old Dominion University in January.

An owner of the social media company, Arya Toufanian of Maryland, and cameraman Benjamin Fredette of New Jersey, were both charged with conspiracy to incite a riot after police had to break up a large crowd near campus on January 17.

“I’m Shmacked” travels to college campuses across the country, filming documentaries of students partying. The group promotes where it’s cameras will be via social media.

In January, the company announced via Twitter it would be at ODU, and the following Friday police were dispatched to West 42nd Street where a parked SUV had been severely vandalized.

All charges have been dropped against Toufanian and Fredette, and two charges were dropped against Collin Morisi of Chesapeake, according to Amanda Howie with the Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.

A third charged remains against Morisi, but has been reduced to disorderly conduct. However, if he keeps good behavior for a year, the charge can be dismissed, Howie said. In the meantime, Morisi is banned from ODU and all ODU territories.